Paralympics Australia joins National Redress Scheme

Paralympics Australia has officially joined the National Redress Scheme for Institutional Child Abuse as a participating institution.

Paralympics Australia’s commitment sends a clear statement of its zero tolerance position on the issue of child sexual abuse and its intention to provide support and care for anyone impacted by sexual misconduct while under the organisation’s care.

Paralympics Australia President Jock O’Callaghan said “We support the National Redress Scheme and are strongly committed to providing environments that are safe, supportive and fun for children and young people.

“We have zero tolerance for any form of behaviour that puts the well-being of children and young people at risk”.

The National Redress Scheme was established in response to recommendations by the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. The scheme, which started on 1 July 2018 and is set to run for 10 years, is focused on ensuring survivors of institutional child sexual abuse are acknowledged, recognised and supported.

Paralympics Australia CEO Lynne Anderson said “Any form of abuse is abhorrent – we acknowledge the catastrophic impact abuse has on the lives of those abused, and their families and friends.

“Our organisation is strongly aligned to the values and expectations of the National Redress Scheme and we remain ready to work closely with the scheme to support any survivors that may come forward”.

Revisiting the events of the past may be distressing for people as they apply for redress. If at any time a person would like to talk to a professional with experience in trauma, please contact one of the scheme’s free and confidential support services.

For further information, visit www.nationalredress.gov.au or call the National Redress Scheme line on 1800 737 377.

By: Tim Mannion, Paralympics Australia
Posted: 1 March 2021